Many of the best VPNs offer browser extensions, but there's a lot of variety in the offerings. Some extensions let you control the full desktop application from a browser window, while others act as a lightweight split tunnel that only secures your browser traffic and lets other data on your PC go out unencrypted. It can be difficult to gauge exactly what features you’re getting before you purchase a subscription, so we go over what you can expect from a VPN browser extension and a few of the best we have tested.
Overview
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![Proton VPN]()
Best OverallProton VPN
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![NordVPN]()
Best for Blocking AdsNordVPN
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![ExpressVPN]()
Best for a Complete VPN ExperienceExpressVPN
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![TunnelBear VPN]()
Best for NewbiesTunnelBear VPN
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![Surfshark VPN]()
Best Replication of Desktop AppSurfshark VPN
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![Windscribe VPN]()
Best Company TransparencyWindscribe VPN
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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Credit: Proton
![Proton VPN]()
Best OverallProton VPN
Pros & Cons
Proton VPN's browser extension uses HTTPS encryption and offers access to advanced features, such as DoubleVPN, directly within the extension. It doesn't include the full feature set in the browser extension, but you still get a lot of advanced features and controls right there in your browser.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: The full version of Proton VPN offers split tunneling and multi-hop connections in a straightforward app that lets you select specific servers. Best of all, Proton provides the best free VPN subscription we've seen and places no data limit on its free users. Subscribers also get access to the Proton suite of tools, which includes secure email, calendar, a password manager, and cloud file storage that prioritizes privacy.
Privacy and security: Proton takes privacy seriously with an unyielding commitment to transparency and accountability that you don’t often see in the VPN space. All apps are open-source, so you never have to question if there’s a hidden vulnerability that could compromise your data. Annual audits and frequent transparency reports show that Proton is maintaining its standards year after year.
Speed and performance: Proton’s premium servers place the service in the middle of the pack, with a 20.11% decrease in download speeds, a 43.21% decrease in upload speeds, and a 351.26% increase in latency.
Streaming: We had no issues streaming Netflix with Proton. Proton’s premium servers worked flawlessly, granting us access to every regional catalog we tested.
User experience and ease of use: All of Proton’s apps are streamlined and easy to use for beginners and experienced users alike. Features are easily accessible and clearly labeled on both desktop and mobile interfaces. It’s easy to tell when you’re connected to a server, and you can access advanced options with just a couple of clicks.
Who It's For
Users who want premium protection at an affordable price: Proton VPN's pricing is just below average, and it offers an excellent overall experience across platforms. It helps that Proton is the only VPN on the list to provide a truly free tier, so you can test out all its features before you sign up for a paid subscription. However, note that only paying customers can access Proton's Canadian servers.
Users who value privacy: Proton’s industry-leading commitment to transparency and privacy makes it one of the best options for the privacy-conscious. With open-source apps and regular audits, you can keep tabs on exactly how the company is responding to threats to user data.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Can Manually Select Server In Free Version Free Connection Speeds Limited No Free Version Free Version Server Limit US, Netherlands, Japan Free Version Data Limit Unlimited Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit 1 Geographically Diverse Servers No Ads In Free Version? Yes Public Third-Party Audit Server Locations 129 countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 10 Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More Proton VPN Review -
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Credit: NordVPN
![NordVPN]()
Best for Blocking AdsNordVPN
Pros & Cons
The NordVPN Chrome extension blocks ads and WebRTC leaks and lets you select websites to bypass the encrypted connection. It's a solid choice, though the design is slightly claustrophobic compared with its desktop app.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: The NordVPN full version includes the NordLynx protocol, which is fast, open-source, and reliable. It also provides access to split tunneling and multi-hop connections. Nord’s Threat Protection Pro antivirus model keeps you safe from malware and blocks nasty trackers that could try to keep tabs on your browsing habits.
Privacy and security: Nord maintains transparent privacy standards with third-party audits and a frequently updated transparency report. NordLynx uses open-source technology, so you can take a look at what makes the service tick. Nord doesn’t keep logs, and its no-logs policy has been independently verified in multiple security audits by VerSprite, Cure53, Deloitte, and PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC).
Speed and performance: Nord has consistently delivered excellent performance in our tests. It reduced our download speeds by just 5.20%, upload speeds by 5.78%, and increased our latency by 58.14%. Just keep in mind that your experience may vary depending on your proximity to a Nord server.
Streaming: Streaming with Nord was streamlined. We didn’t experience any buffering or stuttering with videos. Additionally, Nord managed to unblock every regional Netflix library we tested.
User experience and ease of use: Nord’s desktop apps can be a tad cluttered and overwhelming, especially if you’re new to VPNs. The dashboard is excellent for advanced users, as it offers a range of proper menus and tools.
Who It's For
Extension users who want ad blocking: NordVPN's Chrome extension can allow specific websites to bypass the encrypted connection. The extension also includes ad-blocking, which was effective in our testing. We appreciate that NordVPN offers a pause button that lets you pause the connection and automatically reconnect after a preset period.
Video streamers: People looking to access local streaming content will appreciate NordVPN's extensive server selection. Nord’s speeds were steady enough to grant stable, reliable video streams.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 118 countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 6 Supported Protocols on Android NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN Supported Protocols on iOS NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec Supported Protocols on macOS NordLynx (based on WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2 Learn More NordVPN Review -
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Credit: ExpressVPN
![ExpressVPN]()
Best for a Complete VPN ExperienceExpressVPN
Pros & Cons
ExpressVPN's Chrome extension functions as a remote control for the desktop VPN app. On the plus side, it's a real VPN with all of the features you're paying for. On the downside, you need the desktop app installed to use the extension.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: With full access to the desktop app via the extension, you get all of the same features as the full-fledged desktop experience. That includes ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol, known for its reliability and backed by post-quantum encryption. You can also take advantage of advanced features such as split tunneling.
Privacy and security: ExpressVPN is transparent about its data practices. The service does log aggregate data on user usage, but the company claims none of this information can be tied back to user accounts. Biannual transparency reports reinforce this claim, as do the 22 independent security audits Express has undergone.
Speed and performance: ExpressVPN decreased download speeds by 18.55%, upload speeds by 7.45%, and increased latency by 95.62%. These scores place it ahead of most services.
Streaming: Netflix access was seamless with ExpressVPN. We put it up against five regional catalogs in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan. It performed well, giving us unrestricted access to every single one.
User experience and ease of use: ExpressVPN has a slick, easy-to-use interface. Its single-button connection screen makes it a breeze to connect, and the settings menu offers plenty of advanced features for those who want to fine-tune their connection.
Who It's For
Users who want full app access via an extension: If you don't feel comfortable using a Chrome extension instead of a dedicated VPN, ExpressVPN is the service for you.
Binge watchers: ExpressVPN is for those who want fast, reliable streaming. The VPN's specialized Lightway protocol makes it an excellent option for streaming, gaming, and browsing.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 105 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections 10-14 Supported Protocols on Android Lightway Supported Protocols on iOS OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS Lightway, OpenVPN, L2TP Learn More ExpressVPN Review -
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![TunnelBear VPN]()
Best for NewbiesTunnelBear VPN
Pros & Cons
TunnelBear's Chrome extension falls into the proxy category and has all the friendliness and simplicity we've come to expect from the company. It lacks features found in other extensions, but many of these are available in TunnelBear's standalone ad and tracker blocker.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: The full version of TunnelBear has servers in 45 countries and doesn’t place a cap on simultaneous device connections. You get advanced obfuscation with GhostBear, a protocol that mimics HTTPS to bypass common VPN blocks. TunnelBear also has a free version that lets you try out all the app's features if you’re not sure it's the right pick for you. You aren’t limited to a slim selection of servers or barred from using advanced features or protocols. However, you are limited to 2GB of data per month.
Privacy and security: TunnelBear’s privacy policy is thoughtfully designed and easy to read. Every point is illustrated with a real-world example of how TunnelBear handles that specific instance, inquiry, or data point. TunnelBear has undergone seven separate independent audits that have verified the company’s stalwart stance on privacy. Regularly updated transparency reports hammer home this point, revealing that the service has never handed over user information in response to an inquiry or lawful order.
Speed and performance: TunnelBear performed below average in our most recent bout of speed tests. It decreased our download speeds by 83% and our upload speeds by 72%. Latency also saw a significant 109% increase. Keep in mind that speed tests vary based on a variety of local factors, so we don’t recommend buying a VPN based on speed tests alone.
Streaming: Streaming with TunnelBear was reliable. The VPN unblocked Netflix in all tested regions without fail. TunnelBear has servers in 45 countries, providing broad global coverage. While it may not have the most comprehensive server network, it services the most popular countries that offer regional streaming catalogs.
User experience and ease of use: One of TunnelBear’s standout features is its intuitive, fun design. The fun, brightly colored interface is easy to use and features bears at every turn. It’s not too cluttered. It’s not too sparse. This interface is just right. A map makes it easy to tell where you’re connecting to, and you’ll get a cute animation of a bear tunneling to the region that you choose to connect to. Advanced features and additional configuration options are just a couple of clicks away.
Who It's For
Users who want a fun VPN: TunnelBear smartly brings its trademark simple style and straightforward usability to its Chrome extension, so those who love its friendly ursine mascot won't miss it here.
People who don't want to pay: Fun and free go hand in hand with TunnelBear. You can give the bear-themed Android app a whirl without having to pay, though I’d keep an eye on your honey stash. The full TunnelBear app is free as long as you stay under the 2GB per month cap, making it a great option for trying the service before you subscribe.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Are All Features Available In Free Version? Blocks Ads Can Manually Select Server In Free Version Free Connection Speeds Limited No Free Version Free Version Server Limit All Servers Free Version Data Limit 2GB per month Free Version Simultaneous Connection Limit Unlimited Geographically Diverse Servers No Ads In Free Version? Yes Public Third-Party Audit Server Locations 45 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Supported Protocols on Android OpenVPN Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, OpenVPN Learn More TunnelBear VPN Review -
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Credit: Surfshark
![Surfshark VPN]()
Best Replication of Desktop AppSurfshark VPN
Pros & Cons
Surfshark manages to cram a lightweight visual clone of its desktop VPN app into its Chrome extension. The result is a bit overwhelming compared with the competition, but it makes up for that with numerous features, such as ad and WebRTC leak blocking, a website bypass tool, and the security features from Surfshark One.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: Surfshark's network has good global coverage with presence in 100 countries. Advanced connection options, such as multi-hop and post-quantum encryption, make it easy to tailor your security preferences. Surfshark aims to be a one-app security solution. You can configure an antivirus, ad blocker, and additional identity protection tools all in one place. No features are absent compared to the desktop version.
Privacy and security: Privacy policies can be confusing and dense. Surfshark takes a beginner-friendly approach and has an in-depth but digestible policy that explains how the company handles data. The service has verified these claims with frequent third-party audits and quarterly transparency reports.
Speed and performance: Surfshark's performance was impressive. We only saw a 3.25% decrease in download speeds, a 6.07% decrease in upload speeds, and an 83.92% increase in latency.
Streaming: Netflix access was no problem for Surfshark. It accessed every regional catalog we tested without running into blocks. We did not experience stuttering or slow load times even when connected to distant locations.
User experience and ease of use: The extension is a bit cramped and cluttered, but the regular desktop app is more streamlined and easier to use.
Who It's For
Media streamers: Surfshark is a solid choice for those looking to watch their favorite shows from anywhere without compromising on security. The VPN was one of the fastest we have tested, and it unblocked regional Netflix catalogs with ease.
Users who want a more robust VPN extension: The Surfshark Chrome extension is nearly identical to its desktop app in terms of design and includes several Surfshark One features. Those familiar with Surfshark's other apps will find themselves at home here. Like others, Surfshark lets you specify sites you want to bypass the encrypted connection. The extension also blocks WebRTC and ads, which it did well in testing.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Data Limit No Free Version Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 100 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Supported Protocols on Android WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on iOS WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 Supported Protocols on macOS WireGuard, IKEv2 Learn More Surfshark VPN Review -
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Credit: Windscribe
![Windscribe VPN]()
Best Company TransparencyWindscribe VPN
Pros & Cons
Windscribe is one of the most honest, openly transparent VPN providers we've seen in the market. From its user data retention policies to its stellar scores in many of our benchmarks, save a few, Windscribe represents a forward-looking operation that strives to provide a seamless yet robust proxy for your Chrome browser experience.
Why We Picked It
Features and capabilities: The full version of Windscribe allows for unlimited simultaneous device connections and grants access to a sizable physical server network. The VPN offers advanced features such as split tunneling and double-hop (also known as multi-hop) server connections. Android isn’t missing out on any notable features and performs just as well as the full Windows version.
Privacy and security: Windscribe doesn't log your data. Its fast and anonymous signup process allows you to use the VPN app without giving up a lot of data about yourself. Next, you can pay for the app using various payment methods, including cryptocurrency. On Windscribe's website, you'll find the company's ethics statement and a transparency report detailing every law-enforcement request it receives.
Speed and performance: Windscribe's performance was solid. Download speed test scores decreased by only 10.66%, upload speed test scores decreased by 13.20%, and latency increased by 67.01%.
Streaming: We were able to watch Netflix without any restrictions while connected to Windscribe’s network. We could access the entire library when connected to five Windscribe servers in Australia, Canada, Japan, the UK, and the US.
User experience and ease of use: Minimalists will appreciate Windscribe's interface. It’s simple and straightforward to use, without skimping on advanced settings. You can use the one-button dashboard to get connected quickly, or you can dive into a detailed settings menu full of tutorials and useful links.
Who It's For
Users who value privacy: Like many VPNs on the market, Windscribe is reasonably priced and fully featured. However, its transparency regarding user privacy is what sets the company apart from others. As a no-logs provider, Windscribe guarantees that no identifying information about its customers will be handed over to law enforcement that submits record requests.
Users who want a lightweight proxy extension: Those who are first and foremost concerned with what happens to their Chrome browser traffic will feel safe trusting their information to Windscribe.
Specs & Configurations
500+ Servers Blocks Ads Free Version Free Version Data Limit 10GB Per Month Geographically Diverse Servers Server Locations 69 Countries Simultaneous VPN Connections Unlimited Learn More Windscribe VPN Review -
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5.0 Exemplary |
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4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
5.0 Exemplary |
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Best For | Best Overall | Best for Blocking Ads | Best for a Complete VPN Experience | Best for Newbies | Best Replication of Desktop App | Best Company Transparency | Best Overall | Best for Blocking Ads | Best for a Complete VPN Experience |
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Simultaneous VPN Connections | 10 | 6 | 10-14 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 | 6 | 10-14 |
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Server Locations | 129 countries | 118 countries | 105 Countries | 45 Countries | 100 Countries | 69 Countries | 129 countries | 118 countries | 105 Countries |
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Free Version Data Limit | Unlimited | No Free Version | No Free Version | 2GB per month | No Free Version | 10GB Per Month | Unlimited | No Free Version | No Free Version |
Buying Guide: The Best VPN Extensions for Chrome in 2026
Chrome VPN Extensions vs. Full VPNs
Chrome (and other browser) VPN extensions fall into three general categories:
- Lightweight VPN: These only obfuscate your web browsing. Any other traffic will go straight through your regular internet connection when you’re using one of these plug-ins, which can include information related to downloads, games, torrenting, and streaming service applications. Essentially, it's a split tunnel activated solely for your browser, not for any other programs on your device.
- Proxy: A proxy doesn’t always encrypt your traffic. Instead, it allows you to spoof your location to access regional sites and (sometimes) streaming services. However, if the proxy isn't encrypted, your traffic will still be visible to third parties such as your internet service provider (ISP).
- Remote Control: These plug-ins are becoming increasingly popular, allowing you to connect to the main VPN app without leaving your browser. While the VPN doesn't technically run in the extension itself, you can use the interface to control the full functionality of the service.
In comparison, a locally installed VPN encrypts all traffic leaving your device. This protection comes at the cost of performance. A full VPN will usually decrease your download and upload speeds while increasing your latency. Lightweight versions and browser extensions mitigate that performance loss at the cost of security. It's also worth noting that there’s always a risk that a background process or app can compromise your anonymity, as it will send data through your regular connection rather than through your browser. Be mindful of the apps you have running if you’re only securing your traffic with a web extension.
While there are multiple versions, services have gotten much better in recent years at disclosing what exactly you’re getting from a browser extension. The ones that only obfuscate your location will be labeled as proxies, while others that control the central application will often be advertised as remote controls.
Are Chrome VPN Extensions Secure?
Not all of them. While rare, malicious extensions can slip through Google’s approval system and infect users’ devices. Ensure you’re using trusted links directly from a VPN’s website. Don’t trust unlisted, private extensions, as they haven’t been verified by Google. Otherwise, the plug-ins in this roundup all come from reputable VPNs that have undergone my rigorous testing process.
Recommended by Our Editors
By default, a Chrome extension doesn’t keep any additional data compared with using a standalone application. However, it adds another layer of risk by relying on a third-party servicer. You take on a similar amount of risk when using the Google Play Store or the App Store. In the unlikely event that a security vulnerability is found on the platform, it could provide malicious actors with pathways to exploit plug-ins and apps. When malicious apps slip through, they can end up on thousands of computers.
Should You Use a Chrome VPN Extension?
It depends on your use case. If you’re only looking to obfuscate your web traffic to access streaming services like Netflix or unblock region-specific websites, then a VPN extension may be a good pick. One can also be useful if you’re using a locked-down computer that can’t run full applications or if you’re on a PC that isn’t yours.
Those instances aside, it is best to use the full application when possible. You get better encryption, access to more advanced features, and the peace of mind that you won’t accidentally expose your traffic because of a rogue app. A standalone VPN service can do everything a browser extension can and more.
Whatever you decide, remember that a VPN cannot protect you from every threat to your security and privacy. I strongly recommend using antivirus software, a password manager, and enabling multi-factor authentication wherever available.